Gunners boss Arsene Wenger told the club's official website: "David Ospina is an excellent goalkeeper, with good experience and a proven record of performing with Nice and Colombia. He will add strength to our squad and we are very pleased that he will be joining us."

Arsenal did not announce the transfer fee but it is believed to be in the region of four million euros.

TRANSFERS BY LEAGUE

Ospina, who spent six years with Nice, told the French club's website it was "an opportunity that could not be rejected" but added: "Nice and its fans will always remain in my heart."

Nice manager Claude Puel had already stated that the deal would go ahead, telling Sky Sports News: "At 25 years old, it is important for him to experience another championship, so it is a fantastic move for him. I think he can take the No. 1 spot at Arsenal because his qualities are very, very strong. He is very good with his feet, with his arms, and he knows soccer. He is a very, very good player."

Wenger earlier told ESPN FC that Wojciech Szczesny would face competition for his place: "You know at the start Szczesny will be the No.1, then again we'll be down to performances and, if Ospina shows that he is better, he will play."